Foundations announce $3 million partnership to bridge digital divide

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Colonial Foundation’s partnership will last for three years.

The three-year partnership will see $3 million invested in remote, rural and regional communities to support and strengthen their digital skills and resources. The funding will address the shortfall in funding requests that FRRR has seen from community groups for its flagship program, Strengthening Rural Communities.

“These funds will enable more locals to get online, build social connections and access services, information, education and employment through training. Additionally, it will assist in enhancing digital connectivity by funding infrastructure when needed,“ said Natalie Egleton, FRRR CEO. “We are also grateful that Colonial’s support will enable FRRR’s team to spend more time on the ground, in community coaching, listening, learning and connecting groups across the country facing similar challenges.”

Andre Carstens, Colonial Foundation CEO, expressed the foundation’s commitment to advancing regional and rural Australia and its share in FRRR’s commitment to enabling vibrant, resilient and sustainable communities.

“We are thrilled to be able to partner with FRRR to offer targeted yet flexible funding to help reduce this gap in digital literacy, services and skills and enhance connectedness, capability and resilience,“ Carstens said. “Rural people deserve the opportunity to build technical skills and knowledge so they can improve their quality of life and the way they engage both locally, and with the broader world. This tangible support of local not-for-profit groups will help provide better access to services, information, education and employment.”

Applications for the next round of the Strengthening Rural Communities program, including these funds, will open at the end of March, with funds awarded in late August.

Geraldine Grones

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Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.